Taylor Metzing

Taylor Metzing is a member of Marist's M.A. in Museum Studies Class of 2015. She received a Bachelor of Science in Arts Management from Franklin Pierce University.

Tell us about your work history before Marist, including years of experience, industry, companies, and positions.
My first position in the non-profit sector was during the summer of 2009. I worked at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts as a Development Intern. I really learned a lot about what I wanted to do after I finished my undergraduate studies. Unfortunately, I graduated and had no luck finding a position in a cultural institution. After a few odd jobs, I decided that going back to school would benefit my career moving forward.

What are your career goals?
I hope to become an Executive Director of a small organization. My boss has been a complete inspiration to my goals and I hope to run an institution half as well as she does.

Why did you choose to pursue your degree at Marist?
I have been a Hudson Valley native my whole life so I checked into programs the school offered. When I found the Museum Studies program it seemed like a perfect fit. I just knew from the way the program was structured that I would get the most out of my degree if it came from Marist. The fact that it is a catered to all walks of life and study meant that we would be learning about so many new things. The biggest selling point was the fact that museum professionals from around the world would be our professors. I couldn’t pass up what was quite possibly the most unique learning opportunity I would ever have.

Tell us about a project or course that was particularly meaningful to your professional development.
I would have to say that the most meaningful course I took during my studies was Museum Development, Management, and Leadership. Dr. James Bradburne was able to convey so many different ideas about every facet of the museum. Most of those theories were easily transferrable to the job I have currently. Having an insight on the inherent obstacles museums and their professionals face in today’s society has been an advantage over many trying to make a name for themselves in the field.

How has a degree from Marist and your course work enhanced your career: The main reason I went back to school was to better myself and find a career that I am passionate about. I have never been one to work well in an environment that I cannot spread my wings. But I can do that and it is safe to say that the much of the credit goes to Marist. Being able to go to work every day happy and excited for the day ahead is not something that many people can say. I wouldn't be able to say that if it weren't for my degree from Marist!

What advice would you give to a student considering pursuing their master’s degree at Marist:I am fiercely proud to be an alum of Marist and believe that it is a great choice if someone is looking for a small, focused program. I was able to learn so much about a field I am passionate about while being able to transfer the theoretical knowledge I gained into practical experience. I don't think I could have chosen a better school to attend.